Provenance Research Program
MNR 643, Alfred Sisley, Allée de peupliers aux environs de Moret-sur-Loing, 1890 © RMN-Grand Palais (Musée d’Orsay)
A Five-Year Research Project at the Musée d’Orsay
100,000
Cultural objects stolen by the Nazis in Europe
60,000
Looted artworks returned to France by 1950
225
Recovered works at the Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay’s Initiative
More than ever, the Musée d’Orsay is committed to in-depth research on the provenance of its collections. In accordance with the values upheld by the institution and the ethical standards established by ICOM, the Washington Convention (1998), and the Ministry of Culture, the history of the works is now the subject of rigorous attention, and the Musée d’Orsay actively participates in the renewed research on the provenance of works in its collections.
A central focus of this initiative involves works known as the Musées Nationaux Récupération (MNR)—artworks looted by the Nazis and recovered in the aftermath of World War II. Of the 60,000 works returned to France in the aftermath of the war, 225 remain in the care of the Musée d’Orsay and require further research. In addition to the MNR works, AFMO’s support will enable the study of other artworks at the Orsay whose provenance in the years 1933–1945 is still in need of full clarification.
MNR 192, Eugène Boudin, Normandes étendant du linge sur une plage, 1865, © RMN-Grand Palais (Musée d’Orsay) / Stéphane Maréchalle
AFMO is proud to support a project that contributes to transparency, historical understanding, and the responsible stewardship of cultural heritage. A central focus of this initiative involves works known as the Musées Nationaux Récupération (MNR) — artworks recovered in the aftermath of World War II. Of the 60,000 works returned to France at that time, 224remain in the care of the Musée d’Orsay and require further research.
Our support focuses on two main areas.
The Commitment
Research Team
Over the next five years, AFMO will fund a team of art historians and researchers led by provenance expert Dr. Ines Rotermund-Reynard. Her team will study the ownership histories of the 225 recovered (MNR) works in the Musée d’Orsay’s collections, as well as approximately 200 pieces acquired after 1933. The team will use new technology and work with experts around the world.
MNR 631, Edouard Manet, Oeillets et clématite dans un vase de cristal, 1882 © RMN-Grand Palais (Musée d’Orsay)
Starting early 2026, AFMO will also support the creation of a dedicated gallery at the Orsay: the ‘To whom do these works belong?’ gallery. Opened on Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, this gallery features rotating installations of MNR works. By sharing the history of these paintings and the research underway, the gallery serves as a space for reflection and remembrance. AFMO’s contribution is recognized with a plaque in the gallery.
A Dedicated Gallery
If you wish to enter a different amount, please the Custom Amount option. We are very grateful for your donation.
For information about contributing via Donor Advised Fund, check, or bank transfer, please click here.
If you have any inquiries about this initiative, please email projects@aforsay.org
Giving Options for Taxpayers outside the U.S.
AFMO is supported by the UK Fund for Charities, Myriad Canada, and Myriad Australia. Though these organizations, taxpayers from the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia may receive tax benefits for their donations to American Friends Musée d’Orsay et de l’Orangerie.